Federal officials deny state bids to tighten voter registration

WICHITA, Kan. – The U.S. Election Assistance Commission has found that heightened proof-of-citizenship requirements would likely hinder eligible citizens from voting in federal elections.

The finding came in a ruling late today that denied requests from Kansas, Arizona and Georgia to modify the federal registration form for their residents.

Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach says the states now will press their constitutional claims before the U.S. District Court in Kansas in a pending lawsuit. He contends the decision is unconstitutional because it prevents the states from securing their voter rolls.

A lawyer for Project Vote calls the ruling a significant decision that underscores the purpose of the National Voter Registration Act to remove barriers. It contends that requiring documentary proof of citizenship prevents eligible citizens from registering to vote and voting.